Keeping Score

Hart produces a smartly written ripped-from-the-headlines tale of marriage on the rocks. Professional basketball player Warrick Evans has avoided scandal and media attention while getting the Brooklyn Monarchs to the playoffs. Now the media and public are delving into the intimate details of his personal life. While never doubting her love for her husband, Dr. Marilyn Devry-Evans begins wondering whether this is the life she wants. A keen understanding of the human heart gives this mature romantic story a realistic tone. The dialogue is explosive, seductive, and pleading as it artfully shows the silent strength of the characters. Hart’s understanding of the basketball world is spot-on, but fans of the series will want more than a fleeting update on the previous installments (Fast Break and Smooth Play). Though the plot is a little formulaic, the reader is still in for a touching and inspirational story. Agent: Roberta Brown, the Brown Literary Agency. (July)